David Kilsby proves it’s never too late to shine on stage
When David Kilsby took the stage in Billy Elliot with Northern Lights Theatre Company earlier this year, the audience held a few familiar faces – members of the Sing for Joy Choir, where David is a proud and passionate singer.
For those who’ve harmonised alongside him each week, seeing him step into the spotlight again after years away from theatre was more than just a night out, it was a celebration of resilience, talent, and the enduring joy of performance.
David joined the ACH Group’s Sing for Joy Choir in early 2024, drawn to the music, camaraderie, and creative challenge under the expert direction of Choir Director Paul Sinkinson. But music has long been part of his story, shaped by a childhood spent around theatres and a lifetime of stage performances across Australia and overseas.
In this article David reflects on the magic of song and stage, proving that while some passions may lie dormant for a time, they never truly fade.
A man of quiet strength and many stories
David’s story begins in South Australia, where he was raised across Waikerie, Port Augusta and Adelaide. A military man by both heritage and service, he spent nearly 23 years in the Army, following in the footsteps of his father, stepfather and brothers who together contributed more than 100 years of combined service.
After retiring from active duty, he transitioned into the Immigration Department, representing Australia in posts as varied as Papua New Guinea, South Africa, Nauru and Christmas Island. Eventually, he turned his energy toward supporting veterans’ mental health through Soldier On.
Through it all, one value stayed close to his heart: staying involved
“It’s always been important to me to stay active, socially and creatively,” David reflects. “It keeps the spirit alive.”
Though David’s professional journey may seem removed from the world of performing arts, theatre has been a constant. The son of a beloved local actress and ballet teacher, David quite literally grew up backstage. “I spent a lot of time on rehearsal room floors as a kid,” he says with a smile. “Mum was always performing or directing.”
Inspired by that early exposure, he dove into musical theatre at Glengowrie High School and continued performing with roles in classics like West Side Story, Godspell and Oliver.
Curtain call in Billy Elliot
In 2025, after a nine-year hiatus and a personal battle with cancer, David made a triumphant return to the stage with the Northern Lights Theatre Company’s production of Billy Elliot. “I needed to reclaim something I loved,” he explains.
“It was difficult for me to rediscover the rhythm of learning new songs and dialogue along with the skills of performance. The cast and production team were great encouragers and by showtime I was loving my return to the stage.”
“Surrounded by such young talent, I felt old but totally energised.”
“Performing again felt like coming home and feeling alive,” David shared.
He played Big Davey, a miner with grit, heart and, surprisingly, a tutu. “Let’s just say I didn’t show off any great dance skills,” he laughs. “But I rocked that tutu the best of them.”
Finding harmony in the Sing for Joy Choir
David’s stage work is complemented by another meaningful creative outlet, the Sing for Joy Choir at ACH Group. Introduced in 2023, David joined officially in 2024 upon turning 65, embracing the opportunity to sing with a vibrant community of like-minded choir members.
“For someone who enjoys singing as much as I do, the choir is a godsend,” he shares. “It’s not just about the performance, it’s the connection, the challenge and the joy of making something beautiful together.”
Pictured: David alongside Paul, Choir Director, and members of the choir.
Led by Choir Director Paul Sinkinson, a respected educator from the Elder Conservatorium, the choir offers both musical excellence and emotional connection. “Paul brings technical depth and encourages us to stretch vocally,” David says. “He’s a major reason the choir is so fulfilling.”
From fortnightly karaoke nights with friends to complex harmonies in choir rehearsals, David’s love for music has only grown stronger. “Singing in a choir should be mandatory for anyone who loves music. It teaches teamwork, discipline and brings such joy.”
Making the most of ACH Group community life
David and his partner are also active participants in ACH Group’s broader social experiences, from live music outings to day tours and long lunches.
It’s about staying active, staying curious and remaining connected.
When asked which events he enjoys most, his answer is immediate. “Live music, every time.” And while he’s quick to spotlight the events, he doesn’t miss the chance to credit those who make them possible. “The staff are fantastic. They help make all this happen.”
The lasting legacy of inspiration
If there’s one person who continues to inspire David’s creative spirit, it’s his late mother. A beloved figure in local theatre, she was still directing performances well into her late 80s, her final show being a spoken word piece for the University of the Third Age.
“She passed away at 90 last year, still creating,” David says. “She taught me that age is never a barrier to the things you love.”
David carries that lesson with him into every performance, every choir rehearsal and every shared song at karaoke. Whether it’s a golden-era musical or a choral harmony, his mother’s influence is always present.
David’s life motto is simple but profound
“Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not get bent out of shape.” It’s a fitting mantra for a man who’s worn many hats, from soldier and public servant to singer, actor and mentor.
His advice to those wondering whether it’s too late to perform, sing or take the stage?
“Stay involved,” he says simply. “Age isn’t a barrier. Be inspired by your own journey or by the amazing talent around you.”
In the future, Tevye from Fiddler On The Roof and Fagan from Oliver would be David’s dream roles.
About ACH Group Social Experiences
Create new and meaningful social connections and experience the vibrant culture of South Australia and beyond.
ACH Group provides a range of social experiences held throughout the Adelaide metropolitan area where you can meet new people, learn new skills, or revitalise past ones.
Led by experienced professionals, whether it’s one-on-one or in a group, we have a class or experience that will suit your interests and needs. No experience or prior knowledge is required to get involved – it’s all about trying something new and engaging with your community to live a good life.
